Last updated: July 2, 2025
Understanding the UV Index is crucial for the residents of Chinhoyi, Zimbabwe, where the sun shines brightly in a Cwa climate. The UV levels in this region can reach a peak of 9 at noon, posing significant risks for sunburn and long-term skin health issues. By monitoring these levels, you can take proactive steps to protect yourself and your loved ones, ensuring that outdoor activities remain safe and enjoyable. With typical UV exposure risks in Chinhoyi being particularly high during the midday sun, staying informed can make all the difference in safeguarding your skin while embracing the vibrant outdoor lifestyle this beautiful city offers.
As the sun rises, the UV Index begins to climb steadily, hitting a low of 1 at 7:00 AM. By 8:00 AM, it nudges up to 2, signaling the start of a brighter day. The index peaks at 9 at 12:00 PM, marking the sun’s most intense rays and urging everyone outside to take precautions. As the afternoon unfolds, the index gradually declines—dropping to 8 by 1:00 PM, then easing to 3 by 3:00 PM, before plummeting to 0 after 6:00 PM. This data highlights the crucial midday hours when UV exposure is at its highest, emphasizing the need for sun protection during this window. Be sun-smart and enjoy your day!
| Time | UVI | Category | Time to Burn |
|---|---|---|---|
| 07:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 08:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 09:00 | 4 | moderate | 30 min |
| 10:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 11:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 12:00 | 9 | very high | 15 min |
| 13:00 | 8 | very high | 15 min |
| 14:00 | 6 | high | 25 min |
| 15:00 | 3 | moderate | 30 min |
| 16:00 | 2 | low | 45 min |
| 17:00 | 1 | low | 45 min |
| 18:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
| 19:00 | 0 | low | 45 min |
Throughout the year, UV index levels exhibit notable seasonal variations, with extreme levels predominating during the winter and fall months. High-risk months include January through April (UV Index 18-13), where exposure is categorized as extreme and the burn time is just 10 minutes. As spring transitions into summer, the UV Index gradually decreases, reaching its lowest point of 8-10 from May to July, categorized as very high, with a slightly increased burn time of 15 minutes. However, August through November sees a resurgence of extreme UV levels, particularly in August and September when the UV Index peaks again at 11-12 and maintains a burn time of 10 minutes. Given these high UV readings, it is crucial for visitors and residents to exercise caution by wearing protective clothing, applying sunscreen regularly, and limiting sun exposure during peak hours to safeguard against skin damage.
UV Risk Categories
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bulawayo UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 9 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Mutare UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Gweru UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Chitungwiza UVI | 17 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 10 | 12 | 13 | 15 | 15 |
| Harare UVI | 18 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 9 | 8 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 15 |
| Chinhoyi | 18 | 16 | 14 | 13 | 10 | 8 | 9 | 11 | 12 | 12 | 15 | 16 |